Live with what makes you happy. Life is too short to do otherwise.
If there’s one thing I have learned over the years, it’s how important it is to surround ourselves with things and people that bring us genuine happiness. And I think our homes should be a reflection of that.
Today, I am especially happy to welcome you back to one of my favorite series I have created here on Home Bunch: Beautiful Homes of Instagram.
For those of you who have been following Home Bunch for many years, you might remember how special this series has always been to me. I created it years ago with the simple idea of opening the doors to real homes, sharing beautiful spaces, and, most importantly, introducing you to the wonderful people behind them.
It’s been quite a few years since I last featured a home in this series. Life has a way of teaching us valuable lessons, and over time, I’ve learned to be more intentional about the people and stories I choose to share in this very special space.
Beautiful Homes of Instagram has always been close to my heart, and bringing it back had to feel just right. And today, it certainly does.
It is such a pleasure to introduce you to Brise de Mer, the beautiful California coastal cottage belonging to Elizabeth Burns of @edbdesigns.
Actually, I should say reintroduce, because Elizabeth is no stranger to Home Bunch! Many years ago, I had the pleasure of featuring her previous home in Santa Barbara, and I have continued to admire her beautiful Instagram feed ever since. Through her photos, I have followed the transformation of her latest home, tucked away in the charming seaside village of Cambria, along California’s Central Coast.
I don’t follow a large number of accounts on Instagram. I prefer to keep my feed filled with things that genuinely inspire me, make me smile, and bring a little beauty into my day. Elizabeth’s account has always been one of those places.
There is something so authentic about her style. Her home doesn’t feel like it was decorated to impress anyone. It feels collected, loved, personal, and filled with the little things that make everyday life worth celebrating. And isn’t that what a beautiful home should be?
What makes this particular house tour even more meaningful is the story behind it. Now, come along to find it out and let’s tour this very special California coastal cottage together!
“”After a major life change in late 2023, I made the decision to sell my house in Santa Barbara in March 2024. My plan was to simplify by moving to a small town and downsizing.
I settled on the seaside village of Cambria on the central coast of California. The plan was to ease into the transition by renting for a year or two.
One month after moving into a rental, my realtor friend from Santa Barbara came to visit. A small house had just come on the market, and on a whim, we decided to drive by it the next day. It was a broker’s open and my friend insisted we check it out.
While it wasn’t my dream house, it ticked so many boxes on my wishlist. It was small (just over 1100 sq ft), had a manageable-sized yard, a one-car garage, three bedrooms, and three full baths, and bonus, views of the ocean!
I put in an offer the next day, and just like that, I had bought a house. My family thought I had lost my mind, but I envisioned turning this rental house (it was sold with all the furniture and everything in the kitchen cabinets and pantry) into a bright and cozy coastal cottage.” — Elizabeth Burns | @edbdesigns
Meet Elizabeth Burns of @edbdesigns, the lovely homeowner and designer behind Brise de Mer.
Elizabeth’s signature style is a beautiful blend of organic, natural, and modern West Coast design, inspired by the California coastline and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Her interiors celebrate natural textures, warm neutrals, greenery, and the effortless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
But what I admire most about Elizabeth isn’t simply her beautiful sense of style. It’s her ability to create a home that reflects who she is and the life she wants to live.
And perhaps that’s the most inspiring part of her story. She’s a wonderful reminder that embracing change can lead us somewhere we never expected, and sometimes, somewhere even better.
“The house was built in the late 70s and had the original aluminum sliding windows (many inoperable) and orange peel-textured walls and ceilings. There was much work to be done!
I hired my friend John Henderson from Santa Barbara to do the construction work, and my new neighbor gave me names of local painters and tradesmen.” — Elizabeth Burns | @edbdesigns
Now, this is a transformation worth celebrating! Elizabeth gave the exterior of Brise de Mer an entirely new personality with Benjamin Moore Midsummer Night, a dramatic, deep exterior paint color that beautifully contrasts with the natural coastal landscaping.
Exterior Paint: Benjamin Moore Midsummer Night.
Shop this Look: Fountain, Galvanized Raised Garden Bed & Cafe Bistro Set.
There’s something so inviting about this California coastal cottage garden. The natural stone pathway winds through lavender, flowering perennials, and soft greenery, while a small fountain adds the gentle sound of running water. It’s the kind of garden that invites you to slow down, linger a little longer, and enjoy being home.
And I think Elizabeth describes that feeling better than anyone:
“I named my cottage Brise de Mer (Sea Breeze) because of the ever-present breeze that drifts up the hill from the ocean and through the open Dutch door. Pure heaven.
I am a happy hermit here at my little house, spending days in the garden and at night with the windows open, lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean.
It truly is my dream house now!” — Elizabeth Burns | @edbdesigns
There’s something wonderful about reaching a point in life when you know exactly what makes you happy, and giving yourself permission to enjoy it.
Before: Built in the late 1970s and measuring just over 1,100 square feet, the house was far from her dream home when she first saw it. But Elizabeth saw something beyond the dated finishes and the work that needed to be done. She saw what it could become.
And this is where the real transformation begins! I always find these behind-the-scenes renovation photos fascinating. They remind us that even the most beautiful homes go through a stage of dust, decisions, and plenty of patience before everything comes together.
One thing is already clear: this long, open living space has so much potential, especially with all that natural light!
“We completely gutted the kitchen and added beams and a wood-plank ceiling to the open-concept kitchen and living room to give it some much-needed character.” – Elizabeth Burns of @edbdesigns
I love seeing these details during construction because they show how much thought goes into creating a home that feels effortlessly beautiful. The finished result may look simple, but it’s often these thoughtful architectural choices that make a room memorable.
What a difference already! With the new kitchen cabinets going in, it’s much easier to appreciate the thoughtful layout Elizabeth chose for her California coastal cottage renovation.
The white cabinetry keeps the room feeling open and airy, while the generous windows allow natural light to pour in throughout the day. I especially like how the cabinetry follows the perimeter of the kitchen, leaving the center open and giving this relatively small space room to breathe.
It’s a great reminder that small kitchen design doesn’t have to feel limiting. With a well-planned layout, plenty of storage, and a restrained palette, even a compact kitchen can feel wonderfully spacious.
And just like that, the entire space feels completely different! With a fresh coat of white paint covering the walls, vaulted ceiling, exposed beams, and hardwood floors, Elizabeth’s once-dated cottage has taken on a wonderfully light and airy appearance.
Hood is from HeritageHoods.
After: And here it is! Can you believe this is the same house? What was once a dated, honey-oak kitchen is now a beautiful example of relaxed California coastal cottage design. Fresh white cabinetry, subtle brass hardware, and crisp white countertops create a timeless foundation, while vintage finds and natural textures give the space its unmistakable charm.
Hardware: Emtek Ring Knobs from Semihandmade.
One of my favorite details is the rustic wood worktable used as a small kitchen island. Instead of choosing something oversized or built-in, Elizabeth opted for a piece that feels collected and full of character. Paired with the oversized woven pendant light, it brings just the right amount of warmth to the otherwise white interior.
Lighting: Pendants are vintage from Mate Gallery in Santa Barbara – Others You Might Like: Tierney Chandelier (New!), 1 – Light Brown/Brass Gold Pendant & Rattan Pendant Light with Scalloped Edge.
(Scroll & click on items to shop)
Cabinets are IKEA with Semihandmade fronts. Paint is Fine Paint of Europe (absolute best for cabinetry), color-matched to Benjamin Moore Natural Cream.
I love those open shelves! Framed artwork, vintage-inspired blue canisters, pottery, and everyday kitchen essentials make this space feel personal and lived-in.
Range: ZLINE Autograph Edition.
This is exactly what I love about organic coastal interiors: nothing feels too precious, yet every detail contributes to a home that is beautiful, comfortable, and entirely its own.
I think that’s one of the secrets to creating a timeless coastal cottage kitchen. Choose pieces you genuinely love, mix textures and finishes, and don’t worry about making everything match.
After all, the best rooms aren’t the ones where everything looks brand-new. They’re the ones that feel as though they’ve been lovingly put together over time.
Wouldn’t you love to start your morning in a kitchen like this? One detail that immediately catches my eye is the beautiful white range with warm brass accents. It’s elegant without feeling formal, and the simple plaster-style range hood allows the surrounding accessories to become part of the design.
And notice how a few carefully chosen pieces introduce color without taking away from the simplicity of the space. Those soft blues, aged brass finishes, and natural wood tones are all you need to create a coastal cottage kitchen that feels timeless.
Range: ZLINE Autograph Edition.
Sink: Kraus Kitchen Sink.
Faucet: Pull Down Single Handle Kitchen Faucet – similar.
Shop this Look: Topiary, Terracotta Planter, Pendant, Wooden Fruit Bowl & Ironstone Butter Dish – similar options.
A kitchen that feels just as lovely for a quiet morning coffee as it does for preparing dinner with the windows open and the ocean breeze drifting in. That’s my kind of dream kitchen!
The Caesarstone Pure White countertops and matching long floating shelf create a beautiful, seamless look in Elizabeth’s coastal cottage kitchen. I especially love how the clean surfaces allow her collection of vintage artwork, pottery, and everyday essentials to stand out. So charming!
Risers: @DebraHalllifestyle.
Shop this Look: Marble Pastry Slab, Round Cutting Board, Artwork, White Handthrown Crock & Utensil Crock – similar.
This rustic wood island is one to inspire! Its simple, furniture-style design offers extra prep space and practical open storage, while hooks keep kitchen towels and everyday essentials within easy reach.
Island was made to order from HerosValor.
Shop this Look: Vintage Stool, Pitcher, Hydrangeas, Copper Pan Set, Artwork & Rug – similar options.
It’s the little details that make this coastal cottage kitchen so memorable! A copper saucepan hangs from the wood island, while a French market bag, vintage butter crock, and simple breadboard add a touch of European country charm.
Sconces: Beck (Opal) Gaselier Sconce – Others You Might Like: Manor Single Sconce, Rhode Sconce & Rejuvenation.
Toaster: SMEG.
Cutting Boards: Rectangular & Round – similar.
Who says everyday dishes can’t be beautiful? Elizabeth turns simple white dinnerware and glassware into an attractive display with open kitchen shelving.
Shelves: White Floating Shelves – similar.
Kettle: SMEG.
I absolutely love the coastal feel the white plank ceiling with exposed beams and the white wood floors give, but can we talk about the lifestyle we experience here? Fresh flowers, a homemade blueberry tart, ocean breezes drifting through the windows… This is the kind of slow coastal living that makes you daydream of leaving the rush behind and simply enjoying life.
One of the secrets to making this 1,100-square-foot coastal cottage feel so bright and spacious? Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65! Elizabeth used this beautiful, crisp white on the walls, trim, and even the floors, creating a seamless look that allows natural light to flow throughout the home. This is a great example of how an all-white paint palette can make a small home feel open, airy, and peaceful.
Interior Paint: Walls, Trim & Floors: Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace.
What a great idea of pairing a weathered wood dining table with white cane-back chairs. The combination feels casual, bringing a touch of French country charm to this California coastal cottage.
Dining Chairs: Delozier.
Now, this is a view I could get used to!!! Imagine enjoying breakfast here, with the ocean in the distance and a gentle sea breeze coming through the open door. Let’s take a deep breath…
Dining Table: Reclaimed Wood – Others: Extendable Round Dining Table (similar), 42″ Round Drop Leaf Wood Pedestal Dining Table & Natural Wood Wash Dining Table.
How I love this… All of it!!! That “once-ordinary house” has been transformed into a bright, inviting California coastal cottage, filled with character, charm, and the unmistakable personality of its owner. Can you imagine anything more peaceful?
Lighting: Mason LED Flush Mount.
You can feel the quietness of this moment… I especially love that this home is a reminder that we don’t always need more space, more things, or a perfect beginning to create a beautiful life. Sometimes, a smaller home, a little courage, and the freedom to live on our own terms are exactly what we need.
“One of the last things we replaced was the front door. I pictured a simple white oak Dutch door but ultimately had to have one custom-made since I was unable to find what I was looking for.” – Elizabeth Burns of @edbdesigns
Stools & Benches: @DebraHalllifestyle.
Shop this Look: Slipcovered Sofa, Rug, Bench, Pillow & Side Table – similar options.
This is my kind of living room! I could spend hours looking at the beautiful collection of coastal artwork, and that hanging chair by the window? I can already picture myself there with a good book and a cup of coffee. I love homes that tell a story, where every piece feels meaningful and there’s always something interesting to discover. This one has my heart!
Coffee Table: Vintage Coffee Table.
Sofa is the Gabriel from Sixpenny Home.
Whale: @andy.teran8
(Scroll & click on items to shop)
Chairs: Hyde Swivel Chairs.
Rug: Handwoven Wool Rug.
Artwork: Many from Mate Gallery.
That beautiful weathered green cabinet is such a treasure! The collection of antique glass bottles, worn wood, and little pieces gathered over time makes this corner feel so special. I have always believed that the most beautiful homes are the ones that reflect the people who live in them.
That beautifully weathered turquoise cabinet brings such a lovely touch of color to this otherwise neutral space. Paired with a miniature wooden chair, old books, and green pottery, it’s a reminder that decorating doesn’t always have to follow the rules. A little creativity and a few treasured finds can go a long way!
There’s something so inviting about a living room where nothing feels too precious. The soft white seating, rustic wooden tables, and touches of sea-glass green create a space that feels comfortable and lived-in. Can you see yourself relaxing here at the end of the day?
Most of the rest of my furniture is antique, vintage, or Facebook Marketplace finds.
Coffee Table: Vintage Coffee Table – similar.
“The existing gas fireplace with the large tiled hearth (the front door hit it when it was opened!) was replaced with a sleek linear gas fireplace complete with driftwood and beach rocks. It was a splurge that I don’t regret as I use it most of the year.” – Elizabeth Burns of @edbdesigns
Linear Fireplace (with driftwood and beach stones) is from Fordens Fireplace Shop in San Luis Obispo.
Now, this is where I’d want to spend my mornings! A cozy hanging chair, a soft knit throw, and sunlight streaming through the windows. All that’s missing is a cup of coffee and a good book. 🙂
Chair: Rattan swing is from Serena and Lily.
Ottoman: Upholstered Wool Ottoman.
Table Lamp: Pottery Barn.
With the sunlight pouring in and a glimpse of the Pacific beyond the windows, this little corner feels like a vacation at home…
Knit Throw: Organic Cotton Napper Weighted Blanket.
Benjamin Moore Natural Cream adds subtle warmth to the stair treads, while Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace keeps the surrounding walls and trim crisp and fresh. The coastal artwork along the staircase is such a lovely finishing touch.
Beautiful Coastal Lighting: White Bell Pendant with Tiny Beads & Capiz Scalloped Chandelier.
It’s always interesting to see what goes into creating a beautiful space. This behind-the-scenes look at Elizabeth’s primary bedroom renovation shows the vaulted ceiling, skylights, and windows that bring so much natural light into the room. Even with construction materials everywhere, you can already see its wonderful potential!
It’s hard to believe this is the same bedroom we just saw under renovation. The skylights fill the room with natural light, while the white-painted floors, relaxed linen bedding, and rustic wooden bench create that effortless California coastal feeling. I especially love the little personal touches, from the vintage-inspired artwork to the Brise de Mer bag tucked beneath the bench. Beautiful!
Shop this Look: Nightstands/Floating Shelves, Rug,Bench, & Quilt.
Imagine waking up to this view every morning! The skylights bring in beautiful natural light, while the windows frame glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. I also love how the soft, layered bedding and understated furnishings allow the architecture and scenery to take center stage. There’s something so peaceful about this bedroom.
Window Shades: Custom Bamboo Shades.
Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace OC-65 is the perfect backdrop for this relaxed coastal bedroom. This crisp, clean white makes the shiplap walls and vaulted ceiling feel bright and airy, while allowing the natural wood, woven textures, and soft neutral bedding to add warmth.
Surf Board: Woven Surf Board – similar.
Here’s a look at the bathroom before its transformation. The blue walls, traditional vanity lighting, white tiled tub surround, and wood flooring give us a glimpse of where Elizabeth started. It’s always fun to see how a room evolves, especially in a cottage where every square foot matters!
What an incredible before and after! Elizabeth transformed this bathroom into a bright, beautifully understated retreat. The walk-in shower with its seamless glass panel makes the room feel so much more spacious, while the fluted wood vanity and brushed brass fixtures bring warmth to the crisp white surroundings. I especially love the little built-in niches and skylight overhead. Every detail feels thoughtful without being overdone!
Shop this Look: Vanity, Mirror, Sconce, Floor Tile & Stump Stool.
This view shows just how thoughtfully Elizabeth made use of every inch of this small bathroom. The floating wood vanity keeps the space feeling open, while the rustic ladder adds warmth and provides a lovely place to hang towels. And that skylight! Natural light makes such a difference, especially in a smaller room. I also love the white sliding barn door, which saves valuable floor space.
Now, this is a smart use of space! In a cottage of just 1,100 square feet, every inch counts. Elizabeth tucked a stacked washer and dryer into a hallway closet, keeping them completely out of sight behind a simple white door.
And here’s what’s hiding behind that door! A stacked washer and dryer fit neatly into this compact closet, while a clever retractable door keeps everything concealed when not in use.
This space is so full of character! I love the combination of the rustic wood-framed mirror, warm brass sconces, and crisp white shiplap. The painted striped floor is the cherry on top!
Vanity: Ceramic White Rectangular Bathroom Console.
Sconces: Mitzi.
Baskets: Storage Basket – Set of 3 – similar.
I love this little space! So organized and clean! A simple wooden peg rail keeps hats, beach towels, and everyday essentials within reach, while a rustic bench provides a convenient spot for shoes. And that driftwood whale above the hooks? Such a sweet nod to coastal living! Just perfect, like everything else in this home.
What a great spot to enjoy dinner outdoors as the sky turns the prettiest shades of pink and peach. The simple wooden table and white chairs are all this little deck needs. Sometimes the most beautiful part of a home is the life you get to enjoy around it.
Shop this Look: Dining Chairs.
The dark exterior of Elizabeth’s home creates such a beautiful contrast against the lavender, flowering perennials, and lush greenery. I especially love the winding stone pathway, the gentle sound of the bubbling fountain, and those galvanized metal planters. It’s a garden that feels wonderfully natural, as though it has evolved over time. And isn’t that little green bistro set tucked among the plants just perfect?
Follow the stone pathway, and you’ll discover this dreamy outdoor retreat…
“I am a happy hermit here at my little house, spending days in the garden and at night with the windows open, lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean.”— Elizabeth Burns | @edbdesigns
Outdoor Sofa: Milou from RH – Others: Porto Outdoor Sofa & Wicker Square Arm Outdoor Sofa.
Chairs: Blue Dot Hot Mesh Lounge Chair.
Teak Root Coffee Table: ShopTerrain.
Outdoor Pillows: Serena and Lily.
I specifically asked Elizabeth to share her stunning photograph with us because she knows how to capture the beauty of her surroundings like no one else. So, take this moment to relax and dream away.
Some views make you forget about everything else.
Allow this moment to wash every worry away. Hear the waves. Feel their strengh.
Calmer moments will arrive soon.
A place to let your thoughts drift away and simply breathe. Everything is healing.
The ocean in the distance, the sky turning the prettiest shades of pink… Everything is always connected.
Moments like these remind me that some of life’s greatest luxuries are the simplest ones.
Doesn’t this make you wish you could stay a little longer? No schedules, no worries. Just the sea breeze, an open sky, and the freedom to enjoy the moment.
Pelicans are often seen as symbols of freedom, resilience, and trust in life’s journey.
Life isn’t about focusing on the storm, but about finding beauty that lies apart from it.
Imagine escaping here for a little while, away from the noise of everyday life. Just you, the fresh air, and the beautiful feeling of having nowhere else you need to be.
The soft morning mist, wildflowers dancing in the breeze, and a quiet pier stretching into the water… Appreciate the beauty of a slower life.
The time to experience life is now.
Happiness is a moment you create. Give the first step towards it.
A special thank you to everyone who helped bring Elizabeth Burns’ beautiful California coastal cottage, Brise de Mer, to life!
– General Contractor: John Henderson | Apexgr.com
– Walls & Plaster Work: Tim Motley Drywall | Atascadero, California
– Painting: Bruce Owens | BruceOwensPainting.com
– Windows: Kolbe Windows | MonarchWindows.com
– Countertops: Ben Barragan | EpicStoneWork.com
– Garden Installation: Mercado Gardening and Hauling | Mercado-gh.com
Notes: All images and credits belong to their respective owners.
Elizabeth’s home is such a lovely reminder that beauty can be found in simplicity, in pieces collected over time, and in the little details that make everyday life special. And perhaps that’s what I love most about Brise de Mer. It’s not just a beautifully renovated house. It’s a home that encourages you to slow down, open the windows, breathe in the ocean air, and appreciate the life happening within its walls.
Elizabeth, thank you from the bottom of my heart for opening the doors of your beautiful home and sharing this special place with us. Your creativity, thoughtful details, and love for this cottage are felt in every corner. It has been such a pleasure sharing your home with my readers.
And to all of you reading, I hope this tour brought a little peace, inspiration, and beauty into your day.
Until our next house tour, take good care of yourselves and remember to enjoy the little things. They’re often the ones that matter most.
Thank you so much for being here.
Love you all!
Luciane 🤍
Thank you for being here and for continuing to make Home Bunch a place for inspiration, ideas, and beautiful homes.
✨ Subscribe to receive new home tours directly to your inbox
✨ Follow along on Instagram: @HomeBunch
✨ Save your favorite rooms on Pinterest to revisit design ideas anytime
Disclaimer: Thank you for shopping through Home Bunch. For your shopping convenience, this post may contain AFFILIATE LINKS to retailers where you can purchase the products (or similar) featured. I make a small commission if you use these links to make your purchase, at no extra cost to you. Shopping through these links is an easy way to support my blog and I appreciate and I am super grateful for your support! I would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or are looking for something in particular. Feel free to contact me and always make sure to check dimensions before ordering. Happy shopping!
“Dear God,
If I am wrong, right me. If I am lost, guide me. If I start to give-up, keep me going.
Lead me in Light and Love”.
Have a wonderful day, my friends and we’ll talk again tomorrow.”
with Love,
Luciane from HomeBunch.com
